Inflammatory pseudotumour of the colon

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours (IMTs) are rare neoplasms, with the lung being the most common site.
• Colorectal IMTs are exceptionally rare and can present as benign entities that mimic malignant tumours.

Observation:

• A 77-year-old male presented with acute abdominal pain, revealing a right lower quadrant mass suggestive of malignancy.
• Clinical and radiological evaluations could not definitively distinguish the lesion from a malignant tumour.

Findings:

• Histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the mass as a colorectal inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour.
• The tumour exhibited features consistent with IMT, despite its initial presentation as a potentially malignant lesion.

Implications:

• Colorectal IMTs pose a diagnostic challenge due to their ability to mimic aggressive cancers.
• Early and accurate diagnosis relies on histological examination, with surgical resection often being the necessary treatment approach.